Former mayor shares key advice with newly elected colleague

A newly elected Danish mayor has received guidance from his experienced predecessor as part of a mentorship programme for the country’s 40 new municipal leaders, reports DR.

Jens Dahlgaard of the Social Democrats (S), the new mayor of Nykøbing Mors, met with his mentor H.C. Østerby (S), the long-serving former mayor of Holstebro, who stepped down after the latest local elections. The meeting was arranged by KL (Local Government Denmark), which has paired newly elected mayors with retired counterparts to help them navigate the increasingly demanding role.

Dahlgaard, described as “the new student in class,” sought Østerby’s advice on handling the challenges of the position. The mentorship initiative reflects growing recognition that the responsibilities of a mayor have intensified compared to previous years.